What Needs to Be on Your Summer 2017 Playlist? We Discuss

Today, we’re flexing our hard-hitting journalistic muscles (*sarcasm*) to cover the tunes of 2017 that need to be playing as all of ya jump behind the wheel with your beverage cooler, bathing suit and favorite pair of sunglasses.

Only a handful of criteria:

1. We kept it to songs released around Jan. 2017 and after.

2. It can’t be something that’s already played nearly 24/7. (Sorry, The Weeknd’s “I Feel It Coming”—-we’re not throwing shade, just saying.)

3. We stay away from anything that’s musically melancholy.

OK, let’s go!

1. “Slide” by Calvin Harris Feat. Frank Ocean & Migos

We start off strongly, if not surprisingly, with “Slide” from Calvin Harris. This one’s perfectly anthemic for the season… nothing more need be said.

The above video’s a preview—this one’s oddly difficult to find on YouTube in full—but follow this link for the full version on Spotify.

2. "Slow Hands" by Niall Horan

We’re throwing an immediate curveball after our first entry by following up with “Slow Hands” by 1D’s Niall Horan. The second single from his debut album, the lyric video only just dropped on May 15 and is a chill tune about a crush that features some funky guitar and a dope beat.

3. “Stay” by Zedd Feat. Alessia Cara

The product of Russian-German electronic music producer Zedd and Canadian vocalist Alessia Cara, we somehow end up with a jam that’s perfect for the American summer. Stirring lyrics meet an upbeat musical arrangement that’s completely contemporary.

4. “Only One” by Sigala & Digital Farm Animals

If you’re not ready to grab your Blenders shades, fuel up the whip, and go somewhere… anywhere… after hearing this one, you’re beyond our help.

A collab from British DJs/record producers/remixers Sigala (Bruce Fielder) and Digital Farm Animals (Nicholas Gale), this thumping, fun banger is tailor-made for your summer exploits, no matter what shenanigans you stumble into.

5. "Drummer Boy” by MisterWives

If you haven’t been listening to MisterWives lately—an NYC pop band you've likely heard before—you should be.

This song starts simply enough, with lead Mandy Lee bringing a distinctive indie vibe—but then it suddenly and thrillingly progresses into a soaring, delightful eighties dance-esque tune. Maybe this isn’t so surprising, though, when you realize MisterWives has opened for the likes of Walk the Moon (“Shut Up and Dance”).

We’re sure to revisit this topic and update you as the summer progresses, so keep an eye out on this space!